Thoughts and musings on faith and our mighty God!

Joy

What is the source of true happiness? Is it your spouse or your children? Is it your house or your car? Is it having enough in the bank or in your retirement account? Is it your job or where you are planning to go on vacation? The psalmist exudes joy as he writes of his relationship with God. In verse ten we read, “I speak of your faithfulness and salvation”. It is here, as well as in God’s love and truth, that we find joy that never fades.

It is common for mankind to seek pleasure, happiness, and security in the things of this world. We pursue possessions, positions, and power – thinking “this” will finally make me happy. But the next new car does not bring pleasure and happiness and security forever. There will always be a newer fancier model or an older, more rare classic. And soon we feel empty and unfulfilled sitting in our current car. The same is true with positions – there is always a younger and better person eagerly working their way up the ladder, one day to take your title. Same is true for power. At some point another will be calling the shots, making your decisions, spending your money, and driving your fancy car.

The psalmist found a source of happiness and joy that is eternal. It will never go away, it will never be replaced by a newer model or a bigger version, it can never be taken from you, and it always loves and accepts you just as you are. The psalmist exudes joy and happiness because of and through his relationship with God. When life is lived for God, then the things of this world lose their luster. Yes, we still need food and shelter and income to provide for our basic needs, but these are just “things”. God’s faithfulness and salvation are eternal and unchanging. Verse eleven reads, “may your love and truth always protect me”. God’s love and truth protect us from the desires of this world. We find our worth and our hope reside in God’s love and truth.

This day and every day may we seek God’s faithfulness and salvation. This day and every day may we desire to live in the promises of God: He is faithful, His love and truth lead to joy in this life and to everlasting life in the age to come. God is our joy! May we always share our joy.